Fracking in Roe Valley ‘not acceptable’ – Chivers

Published:12:27Tuesday 15 May 2012

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SINN Féin’s local spokesperson on Agriculture Colr. Brenda Chivers has raised the issue of fracking for gas in the Roe Valley with her party colleague DCAL Minister Caral Ni Chuilin who is responsible for in-land waterways.

Colr. Chivers is concerned about the potential damage that fracking could have on fish stocks and fisheries, not just in Limavady, but also in Fermanagh and North Antrim.

Colr Chivers said: “The threat of fracking in the Roe Valley has been highlighted in the local media over recent weeks. The potential impact that fracking would have on our fish stocks along the river Roe, Lough Foyle, Owenbeg and Owenreagh is just inconceivable.

“If we were to simply allow the draining of our lakes rivers and streams to facilitate fracking, then we would be without question doing serious damage to our fish stocks and fisheries and this is without even considering the risk for potential contamination to our water supply from chemicals.

“It is now crucial that these warnings are heeded before it is too late and the irreparable damage is done.”